Sara
She Prays leads you on a 31 day prayer journey. It doesn't matter if you don't know how to start or if you are just in a prayer slump, this book will truly walk you step by step into a deeper relationship with God. That is truly what prayer is - communication with God! It is packed with scriptures on prayer and examples of daily life. It's relatable, backed by the Word and full of wisdom. Grab your highlighter and pen because you will want to make notes! Don't forget to get an extra copy for a friend because you will want to share it!
While many of Terri Blackstock's books have a redemptive story in them, Smoke Screen really drives it home. From the start I was intrigued by the main characters - Brenna and Nate. It is written from both points of view, which is done well. Nate Beckett and his career path of being a Fire Jumper are well written and descriptive. You will quickly understand what the demands and challenges of the job entail. He has a strained family relationship due to his father being accused of murdering the town's pastor. After being injured in a fire and heading back to his hometown, the story begins to unfold. Brenna is the daughter of the pastor who was murdered. She's a single mom with an ex-husband that will most certainly make you angry. And to make matters worse, she abuses alcohol as a coping mechanism. As the layers of the story unfold and you get to know the characters, you realize just how flawed and relatable they are and how twisted their struggles get. Even through the layers, the storyline is easy to follow and isn't confusing. The conflict is deep and keeps you guessing. I won't go into detail because nobody likes a spoiler!
It is less of a suspenseful read and more of a drama in my opinion. There is a wide range of topics hit on and packed neatly into one book. If you are looking for a book club read, this would be a great book for discussions regarding forgiveness, blame, grace, alcohol abuse and the Christian faith.
Love Lettering starts off very technical with lettering terms. Which if you are familiar with them it will be a fun aspect, BUT if fonts are not your thing, it will probably drag the reading flow down. I personally loved it and thought it was very creative. I enjoyed the main & supporting characters and how they developed through the book. The romance is a slow burn, but I think it lends to the plot. I was intrigued by how the characters processed the world in different ways, but came together to decode it with a game. The female friendships and how they support and uplift each other was a great addition. Modern. Fresh. Creative. Thoughtful. Funny. - the best way I can describe this book! If you haven't tried a rom-com, this would be a great one to add to your pile. And if you are a fan of rom-com, you won't want to put it down!
Fun read for the pool or beach! The plot reminded me immediately of a Hallmark movie about a football player and his assistant. But despite the feeling that I already knew the storyline, I still kept reading. Cecilia works for NFL quarterback Wade Carter for years. During a family crisis, he returns to his hometown and Cecilia goes with him. He doesn't seem to see her as anything but his left tackle, until she gives him her resignation. And it just gets better from there. There is a Tara like plantation that is mentioned often. I have to say that this detail alone kept me intrigued. Who doesn't love Gone With The Wind! It does have a bit of a Scarlett and Rhett feel to it.
Even though I read this book in July, the Christmas theme was not overwhelming and did not hinder my reading in the middle of summer. Although the story begins with sadness and brokenness, you will begin to feel the joy and warmth of the story as you keep reading. I wasn't really sure what to expect and I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty in the midst of the sad. It's an overall clean romance but just to note, one of the characters is still married and in a broken marriage while embarking on another relationship. There are a few twists in the story that I wasn't expecting. Overall, I enjoyed this quick read that isn't really about Christmas at all.
If you are looking for a Christmas read, this would probably not be the one for you. But, if you are a Nicholas Sparks fan, you will enjoy this read anytime of year.
Historical Romance novellas with a lighthouse theme - what's not to love! Seven stories spanning 1883 to 1911 set in Michigan surrounded by the Great Lakes. The shores hold the stories of not only love, but heartache, strife and even suspense. Each novella written about a women during a historical time period and how she overcame obstacles through faith while also building relationships. The stories are unique but weave together through the setting in which they take place. You will even learn about Lighthouse Keepers - a very fascinating job might I add!
If you enjoy collections, lighthouses and historical fiction surrounding strong female characters, this will fill the spot! It's a beautiful collection to add to your shelf.
Another book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series full of history, faith and love. The story is set in 1849 in San Francisco. It paints a picture of chaos and challenges that occurred during that historical period. The main character is a young girl named Olivia. She is recently widowed and finds refuge with her brother and his friend. She must face life head on with faith and courage during a very dark time. You will also find a bit of mystery in the plot. It can be read on it's own, but does include a bit of history from previous books. Those who love historical fiction with faith and love, will enjoy this read.
While I'm not a huge fan of novellas as they are usually brief and rushed in my opinion, I am a huge fan of Lynette Eason's writing. I quickly realized that this collection of four novellas was going to be one that did not disappoint. If you have read some of her other books, you will recognize some of the characters. Three of the four novellas have been published previously. And, although you meet some old friends, you will also be introduced to new ones. As with all of Eason's writing, the suspense and mystery are top notch. Because they are shorter stories, you will be guessing right from the start. Each of the novellas has a unique set of characters and storyline, but the setting is the same in each.
Lethal Agenda with Derek St. John was the one that I could not stop reading. This is also the novella that has not been published previously. I was glad to see his character find true love. And Claire is the perfect addition to the very full St. John family. The final scene wrapped up the St. John family perfectly.
Lethal Secrets with Eli and Honor is a sweeter story than the others, but it still has suspense intertwined. This one is full of matters of the heart. A widow of five trying to make ends meet and a man who has the gift of patience and serving. I enjoy when storylines are unique but still highlight different life paths.
Lethal Conspiracy with Jason and Lily was packed with intense scenes and suspense. But I felt that their relationship was rushed and a little unrealistic. So, it was my least favorite of the four.
Lethal Homecoming with Kallie and Nolan is packed with action and a re-kindled love. It includes several suspects and keeps you guessing.
As expected due to being novellas, they were a bit rushed for my liking. Overall, they are well written and “just one more page” reads. So, if you love Lynette Eason's writing, novellas or romantic suspense, these stories will make for a quick but satisfying read.
Lynette Eason's new series, Danger Never Sleeps, has started off with a bang - yes, quite literally!
Collateral Damage will keep you up late reading because as expected - it's a page turner. Lynette Eason always delivers on her suspense & mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed the settings jumping back and forth from overseas to South Carolina. You could almost feel the emotion, energy and intenseness of the climate and surroundings. It brings to light the darkness and pain of being in war situations that leave so many with PTSD. Eason did a beautiful job of highlighting the healing that can happen when getting the necessary assistance of professionals in order to manage the pain.
I'm a big fan of strong female characters who have military careers. Not only does Eason do a great job of showing female strength, but she showcases incredible female relationships - no catty behavior in this book! I could write so much more as there are many more details I could highlight, but these are the ones that stood out to me. If you enjoy Colleen Coble, Irene Hannon or Dani Pettrey, you will enjoy Collateral Damage. This is a series that I will be waiting (not very patiently) for the next book to be released!
Middle grade read about an 11 year old girl living in a bookshop with a BIG secret - she doesn't know how to read. It is sprinkled with magic and mystery, but in a lighthearted fashion. Very enjoyable and I look forward to my youngest daughter being able to read it. It reminds me of Mr. Lemoncello's Library.
With this being [a:Jaime Jo Wright 13916081 Jaime Jo Wright https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1447624511p2/13916081.jpg] debut novel, I can definitely say that I hope she has more on the way! She has a way with words and nothing is missed in the details, from the first word to the very last page. On the edge of my seat is truly how I would describe this riveting book. With two storylines that intertwine together and flow across time periods, it captivates your heart and sense of adventure. One minute I was processing the scene, the next I was haunted by the words and at other times, hopeful for love. Just when I was pondering a “how” or “who” or “what”, she swoops back in gives you a hint or one more piece of information. Her female characters are right up my alley - bold, adventurous and able to hold their own. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for solid female main characters. This book weaves historical periods, mystery, crime and a bit of romance in a perfect blend.**Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for a free copy for review. A positive review was not required and is my own humble opinion.
While I often read books that are pertaining to spirituality and God, this particular theological style of read is not at the top of my list. Lately, I have found that it is good to get out of your routine and try new things or push through hard things. So, with the title and the cover peaking my interest, I started reading. The first few chapters were exactly why I don't pick up theological books of this nature. It is very hard for me to get through them quickly and this was true for Why Can't We Trust God. The beginning chapters were laying a foundation in research, stats and theology. I would need to read through those chapters a few more times in order to process everything written. If you are one who likes to read about those things, then the first few chapters will definitely keep you intrigued.
When I got to Chapter 5, this is where the heart of the book starts to pump. Because of the sensitive topic in this chapter, I do feel it is necessary to give fair warning for those who don't want to or can't read about the loss of a child.
Trigger warning: the death and loss of a child is described
As I read the rest of the book, it became less about stats and research and more about life experience. While I may not agree with every word in the book, it is definitely one that will spark deep thoughts about your spiritual journey. It may not deliver answers to all of your questions regarding trusting God. But in my opinion, that is exactly what a good writer does - spark your own desire to learn more, study more and think deeply.
When an author writes from her own spiritual relationship coupled with being a licensed counselor, you get an authentic perspective with thought provoking guidance. Meredith McDaniel discusses the book of Exodus as the Israelites journey through the desert. It is not necessarily a Bible study on the book of Exodus, but more of a side by side comparison. She uses guided journaling to help you see how to let go of the tight grip we have on our plans and let God be our provider. Just as God would provide “manna” from heaven daily to feed the Israelites, she focuses on finding the “manna” in our own lives. Learning how to recognize God's hand in the daily circumstances.
I really enjoyed the way in which this book is laid out for the reader. It leads you through the journey as though you are sitting with a trusted mentor who doesn't just tell you the answer but leads you to it. It's not a surface level read as it will make you take pause and think deeper. It has many thought provoking questions throughout, scriptures for you to meditate on and songs to use as a resource. It's a book that I will go back to as a guide when I need to be reminded to look for the “manna”. Enjoy this read and discover the Creator and how He provides for you!
When the opening line is “Watch your back....this isn't over”, you can only hope the storyline truly delivers. Well The Traitor's Pawn by Lisa Harris is exactly what you would expect - fast paced, suspenseful and an engaging read. The lead female character is bold, brave and holds her own. She is not a damsel in distress, but rather faces her enemy with courage and intelligence. There a few twists and turns that keep you guessing as to who the traitor will be. Tension between family members adds to the characters complicated pasts that come back to haunt them. It's a book you won't want to put down until the end!
Breathtaking Alaskan scenery, extreme mountain climbing, perilous conditions and intense emotions-all wrapped up in a suspenseful romance that will keep you hanging on the edge of your seat. It's a story of rescue - both emotionally and physically.
The lead female character, Jenny Calhoun, is a former CIA profiler and psychiatrist. She is intelligent, fearless and determined to accomplish her goal of climbing Denali. Orion Starr, a pararescue jumper and SEAL, haunted by a rescue mission that ended with death. Both filled with determination, one to climb a mountain and the other to stay far away from mountain adventures. The plot was gripping from the first chapter. With the expressive climbing scenes, no need to go on a mountain climbing expedition because you will feel as if you are on the mountain watching the scenes unfold. Hold on tight, because just when you think you can take a breath, the next paragraph will have you holding your breath all over again.
After reading this first Global Search and Rescue book, I'm adding another series to my TBR list. This year is starting off with several new series that will have me waiting impatiently for the next read.
Who can you trust? Who should you believe? Rachel Dylan will leave you wondering just that in her new inter-agency book, End Game. When elite members of the military are murdered stateside within a short timeframe, it can't be a coincidence. FBI Agent Bailey Ryan and NCIS Agent Marco Agostini are joining forces to connect the dots and bring the killer to justice. All leads point to a Navy Seal sniper but not everyone agrees on his guilt. While searching for answers, more crimes are committed and the stakes are getting higher. Someone is targeting those that get close to the situation but who is behind it.
Suspense at it's finest! This one knocked it out of the park with plot twists and high energy scenes. It will have you trying to put the pieces together only to flip to the next page and have a new twist that throws you back to square one. The relationships (not just romance) between the characters is an added bonus. You will get to know every character from the main two down to the sidekicks.
The Capital Intrigue series starts with End Game and focuses on FBI Agent Bailey Ryan. It all begins with three women who found friendship during their classes at Georgetown Law. Now each have careers in difference government agencies. As their stories unfold, you will discover female leading characters with depth, integrity, charm and leadership. If you enjoy NCIS, Criminal Minds and the likes, you will enjoy reading Rachel Dylan's new series.
Intrigue. Mystery. Perspective. Relationship. Each of these words is how I would describe The Fifth Avenue Story Society. It begins with an invitation being sent to five individuals who are as different as they can be. The invitation is to attend a Story Society which is as ambiguous as the invitation itself. Who sent it? Why did they receive it? Is there a connection? Those are the questions that will be discovered throughout the pages of book.
It's not a fast paced mystery or suspense book, nor is it a riveting romance. I think I would describe it like a Sunday afternoon drive after church down the old country roads - like in the movies because who does this anymore. Or maybe like a long stroll down the beach where you let every sound, smell and touch sink into the depths of your soul. With the turn of every page you learn more about the characters pasts, current situations and hidden woes. Relationships between characters begin to develop as you see the layers of hurt, mistrust, anger and facades exposed. Perspectives shift with every passing week but the mystery is still looming - because what is a Story Society anyway. No spoilers here, so you will just have to read it for the answers to all of these questions.
The storyline is so deep and thought out, as well as being unique and powerful. It is definitely a book that I will go back and read again, because I know I will find more truths and wisdom the second time through. It's also a book that will make you think about the people you encounter in your every day path and maybe even give you a new lens to see them through. If you haven't already figured it out, I highly recommend reading The Fifth Avenue Story Society.
I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Before I go any further with this book review - let me make it short and sweet - YES, 5 stars for me!
Before I Called You Mine is a must read in my opinion and here is the reason why.... the conflict was so moving and you could feel it in your own heart. Lauren Bailey, the main character, is a teacher who decides to pursue adoption but with many obstacles in her way. Now I have never adopted a child, but I do know that it can entail heartbreak and many struggles. Before I Called You Mine does not shy away from those things, which is what made the story so touching and authentic. I could feel the roller coaster of emotions and decisions that the main character wades through. She has a family that is unsupportive and is trying to work through everything that entails. And just as she puts dating off to the side in order to pursue adoption, Joshua comes on the scene. I simply could not put this book down. There are some real tug of war moments that make you gasp out loud. Nicole Deese has a beautiful way of writing and you will also laugh through some pages.
This is not a Hallmark script book. So if you like a clutching storyline with a thread of romance, you will enjoy Before I Called You Mine.
Kristen Wetherell has knocked it out of the park with Fight Your Fears. She writes in a clear, concise and thoughtful way. This book is one you will want to sit with, mark in, & re-read. It's the kind of book you let simmer deep within. The pages are packed with scripture references for practical application. It's not a surface level devotional, but rather a deep dive into the center of fear and what God has to say about it. Kristen ends each chapter with tools you can use: ponder, preserve, prepare, pray. We don't have to live in fear, because we have freedom in God's promises. If you need a resource to help you find the truth about fear- God's truth, Fight Your Fears is the guide you need. It would also be a great book to gift to someone you know who is struggling with worry, fear and anxiety.
The Heart of a Hero is the second book in the Global Search and Rescue series by Susan May Warren. I'm a huge fan of books that come in series - especially from authors I enjoy. Although you don't need to read the first one in order to follow this story line, I would recommend it. It will give you insight into the bits of backstory that are sprinkled throughout the pages.
You can expect a lot of action and adventure with the main characters being a retired Navy SEAL and a pediatric heart surgeon. Then mix in a category 5 hurricane in Key West and you get a page turner. This read will keep you on your toes with the adventure and action around every bend. Susan May Warren always does a great job of blending faith, suspense and romance. You will find all of those within The Heart of a Hero. The books ending sets up the next book in the series The Price of Valor.
Don't Keep Silent is the third book in a series surrounding the McCabe brothers. Right from the start, you will be drawn in to the suspense and storyline. Main characters, Liam McCabe and Rae Burke are searching for Rae's missing sister-in-law.
The storyline moves quickly and keeps you on your toes. It does revolve around human trafficking. But in my opinion, it was written well without being too detailed. The characters are likable and relatable.
Although it is a series, it can be read as a stand alone. If you are looking for a suspense that truly keeps you guessing, give Don't Keep Silent by Elizabeth Goddard a try.
Denise Hunter always delivers and has me coming back for more! Lake Season is one of those books you can't put down once you start. The setting is charming as you would expect for a home turned inn located in North Carolina. So many emotions evoked with this one story that involves siblings who decide to put their lives on hold to complete the project their parents started. Add in a male romance author who becomes a guest at the inn before it's finished, a mystery found in the walls and secrets that are bubbling to the surface and you get an amazing story that you don't want to end. This one knocked it out of the park and I can't wait for the next book!
Let's not waste any time - Seconds to Live is a page turner that is so worth the read! The FBI RED team is on the hunt for a cybercriminal who has hacked the US Marshal's Witness Protection database. Phantom is the hacker who has evaded law enforcement in the past and isn't afraid to commit murder to keep others from talking. Dustee, a witness in WITSEC, is the FBI's chance at finally tracking Phantom down. But the US Marshall (Taylor) protecting her will do anything including risking her own life to keep Dustee safe from potential harm. When the FBI Agent (Sean) is put in charge of the investigation, he is willing to go to great lengths to put Phantom away for good. But will Sean and Taylor be able to trust each other enough to work through their differences and focus on tracking Phantom down before another death occurs? Can't add any more details without potential spoilers!
What I found most intriguing was the storyline was believable down to the most intricate details. On top of that, the villain is not revealed until the very end and it will keep you guessing. Several plot twists, believable characters, Oregon setting, all made this read one that was unforgettable. The details regarding the hacking were excellent and informative, not glossed over or unrealistic. In order to make a cyber crime work, the reader needs to understand what the crime entails - Susan Sleeman did this so well!
The Homeland Heroes series is going to be one not to miss! I'm already anticipating the next book in the series. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves cyber crime with a bit of faith and romance mixed in. It won't disappoint.
For a regency novel it had a very unique storyline, one that was intriguing, highlighting the outcast due to others mistakes but also one of redemption, grace and trust. The main characters Kit and Graham drew you in and had you rooting for them by the end of the first chapter. Although there is a dark underlying story weaved throughout the pages that revolves around illegitimate children (by-blows) and a heroine who puts everything on the line for her cause, the words on the pages remain fresh and even humorous at times. Several times I had to remind myself that blackmailing is not a worthy cause, because I found myself backing The Governess in her grand scheme of getting revenge. The last few chapters leave you thinking deeply with lines such as “Did you even give them a chance?”, “That's not the way grace works.” or “He (God) wasn't confined to the solutions she could conceive.” and many more. At one point in the storyline near the end, I found Graham to be a bit frustrating in that he didn't know if he could forgive Kit which went against the spiritual advice he was giving out. Although I have not read the prequel, it probably would be helpful in order to understand how Kit and Daphne found themselves in the situation they were in. If you are like myself and tend to read books based on mood or season, then this would be a great book to grab for a rainy day on the couch or cozied up by a fire in the fall.
Thank you to Bethany House Publisher for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Even though I enjoy books in this genre, sometimes they can seem very similar – almost as if you've read it before. Not Starfish Pier – it had many characteristics that made it stand out. Irene Hannon is an author that I never have to wonder when I pick up her books if it will be worth my time – she always delivers! One of the things she does best is create characters that are realistic, and not stereotypical. The characters in Starfish Pier have health challenges both physically and mentally. These challenges bring depth and dimension to their interactions and their relationships. Somehow Irene Hannon tackles many heavy topics but in a very tactful way. Alcoholism, capital punishment, abortion, and assisted suicide all play a role throughout. While all of these topics are deep, the way it is written will have you cruising through the pages. I enjoyed the perspectives of the different characters and how they were woven together with messages of hope. The setting of Hope Harbor is a charming seaside town that brings a sense of serenity and family atmosphere. You will not want to leave. If you are looking for a sweet romance that tackles deeper topics, this would be a great pick! I would recommend this one for a book club as well – you won't be disappointed.